Log price beats rate of inflation

TIMBER prices have rebounded from the low levels of Ireland’s construction crash and are likely to stay strong for the next decade, says a leading forestry expert.

Donal Whelan of the Irish Timber Growers Association (ITGA) said foresters are enjoying pre-bust 2007 level prices, having endured 60% price drops in 2008 and 2009. Effectively driven overseas by the domestic property crisis, Irish foresters and timber producers are now enjoying great success in export markets.

EU demand has soared for all types of roundwood (the generic term for any pre-processed tree). The current range of roadside prices being paid to timber growers includes: Pulpwood, €22-26/m3; Stakewood, €40-45/m3; Boxwood, €48-52/m3; Sawlog, €61-66/m3.